Jharcraft bags overseas orders

RANCHI: The next time you shop abroad, don't be surprised if you come across a label of the Jharkhand Silk Textile and Handicraft Development Corporation Limited (Jharcraft).
This body, which promotes handloom and handicrafts of tribals, has spread its wings to foreign shores and even bagged orders from more than 40 companies from China, Malaysia, Indonesia and Korea recently.
Sources in Jharcraft said that in the days to come, almost all products, especially tussar silk, will be available at retail outlets of Jharcraft across the globe. To begin with, they have entered into business agreements with companies from Malaysia, Indonesia, China, Korea and Saudi Arabia.
Jharcraft managing director Dhirendra Kumar said the products which were struggling for recognition in the national market till five years ago, are now in high demand even in foreign countries. "We have around 40 clients who are interested in buying our products. Of these, 11 are from Malaysia. We also have tie-ups with some export houses who supply silk products to foreign companies," said Kumar, who is elated with the rising demand.
Keeping in mind the growing demand of silk products in India and abroad, Jharcraft is also working on a strategy to boost silk production. At present, the total silk production is around 20,000 tonnes against the national demand of 30,000 tonnes.
"In these conditions if we have to meet the growing foreign demand then we will have to increase production. The state government has come forward to augment silk production and we hope that demand increases, production also rises," said Kumar.
Apart from silk, terracotta and dokra are also in high demand.